What is soapstone?

Soapstone is a natural stone quarried all over the world. It is a metamorphic rock (rocks that have “morphed” into another kind of rock) that is formed over millions of years by heat and pressure deep inside the earth.

Soapstone is also known as as “steatite”, which is comprised primarily of the minerals talc, chlorite, dolomite, and magnesite. There are different colors, types and qualities of soapstone. Artistic grade soapstone contains a higher talc content, which means that it is softer and suitable for carving. Philadelphia Soapstone Company soapstone is HIGH QUALITY architectural grade soapstone imported from Brazil, one of the few places this rare and unique stone is still commercially quarried.

Common uses include soapstone firebricks, masonry heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces, pizza ovens, furnaces, and other high-temperature applications. Soapstone is unaffected by extreme heat, making it an excellent choice for fireplace liners, wood stoves, masonry heaters, and commercial or residential heating applications.

What happens if you do not oil the soapstone?

In time, the soapstone will darken around the surface areas most frequently used, particularly in a kitchen or food service environment. Leaving the soapstone untreated will develop a patina of age that many people enjoy. If you change your mind, you can always oil the stone anytime.

How does soapstone withstand heat and temperature changes?

Soapstone is essentially inert. Neither hot nor cold temperatures will harm the stone. Soapstone does not expand or contract with temperature fluctuations and it will not crack due to these sudden changes. Soapstone is essentially inert. Neither hot nor cold temperatures will harm the stone. Soapstone does not expand or contract with temperature fluctuations and resists cracking from thermal shock. Its exceptional thermal mass allows it to absorb large amounts of heat and release it slowly and evenly over time, making it ideal for high-temperature applications.

Soapstone is widely used in fireplaces, wood stoves, masonry heaters, pizza ovens, furnaces, and other heating applications where durability and heat retention are essential. Its ability to store and radiate heat makes it one of the preferred materials for premium firebrick construction.

Soapstone has been used for decades in the construction of high-performance heating systems. Its durability, thermal efficiency, and ability to radiate heat evenly make it an excellent choice for residential and commercial firebrick applications.